ISIS German bride's dad calls for 'fair trial' after Iraqi PM says death penalty could still be likely

By Natalie Cornish| 1 year ago

The father of a German teen who joined Islamic State has pleaded with Iraqi authorities to deport her back to her home country so she can have a "fair trial" after the Iraqi PM said she may still face the death penalty.

Sixteen-year-old Linda Wenzel disappeared from her home near Dresden in July last year. She reportedly traveled to Iraq via Turkey after converting to Islam and being recruited by a fellow ISIS bride on social media.

She was arrested by Iraqi-led forces in the city of Mosul two months ago after they stormed a building where 20 female ISIS fighters had barricaded themselves in with guns and explosives.

Her father Reiner Wenzel was responding to comments from Iraqi PM Haider al-Abadi. He warned yesterday that "teens are still accountable for killing innocent people" and said the country's courts would decide the teen's fate — whether that's life in prison, extradition or the death penalty.

Related video: Prosecutors confirm woman arrested was Linda Wenzel

"You know teenagers under certain laws, they are accountable for their actions", he said.

"Especially if the act is a criminal activity when it amounts to killing innocent people."

Mr al-Abadi confirmed the schoolgirl is being held in a prison in Baghdad while she awaits trial.

Her father — who says he has had no contact with his daughter since she left home last year — has issued a heartfelt plea to the Iraqi government.

"I want so much that my Linda comes home again healthy", he said. "I will always be there for her."

He added: "I fear for her. The authorities absolutely have to bring her to Germany so that she can get a fair trial."

Mr Wenzel maintains his daughter "was not involved in any acts of war".

The schoolgirl reportedly worked with other ISIS brides to ensure women in occupied towns adhered to the group's strict dress code, including not using make-up and always wearing the full veil.

Those who weren't deemed to be modestly dressed were subjected to severe beatings by the female fighters.

German authorities say they are working with the Iraqi government to ensure Wenzel is treated fairly.

They have brought a case for extradition which is currently under review.